Assahafa.com
Participants at the International Scientific Symposium on the Security of Major Sporting Events advocated on Friday in Rabat for an integrated governance model based on an anticipatory approach, operational coordination, and rigorous security planning covering all phases of these events.
In their recommendations concluding the three-day symposium, participants also called for the activation of coordination mechanisms between various stakeholders, including security services, judicial authorities, territorial authorities, and institutional partners, through developing security plans based on precise risk and threat assessments related to the nature of the event and its national and international context.
High-ranking officials and international experts participating in this event, held under the theme “Security at major sporting events: security and legal challenges in the era of digital transformation,” also recommended updating the legal and regulatory framework for major event security to adapt to technological developments and emerging digital threats.
Furthermore, they recommended establishing clear legal protocols for the use of modern digital technologies (smart surveillance, artificial intelligence, data analysis) while ensuring respect for individual rights and freedoms and the protection of personal data.
In another area, participants spoke in favor of systematically integrating modern technologies and AI into security systems, alongside the creation of digital and cyber monitoring units to detect non-conventional threats.
The recommendations also covered the deployment of smart and anticipatory analytical tools to identify indicators of violence and extremism, particularly via digital spaces and social networks; the strengthening of cybersecurity for digital infrastructure related to events; as well as combating disinformation and fake news that could damage the image of the event or public order.
Additionally, participants called for enshrining operational international cooperation mechanisms through the exchange of intelligence, sharing of expertise, and harmonization of best practices. They advocated for the exchange of data regarding terrorist threats, transnational organized crime, and cyber risks, while preventing the exploitation of the sports sector for money laundering purposes.
On the other hand, participants insisted on the importance of capitalizing on comparative experiences and lessons learned from hosting major international sporting events. They urged establishing a regulatory and institutional framework for fan governance based on awareness, guidance, discipline, and a participatory approach that views the public as an essential actor in the success and security of events.
The symposium participants took this opportunity to praise the remarkable efforts made by Morocco to develop its sporting system and host major events under the enlightened leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI.
Furthermore, they called for the structuring of fan associations according to legal and organizational standards, assigning them supervisory roles within the stands and prioritizing the principle of participatory discipline over an exclusively repressive approach. They also suggested developing anticipatory awareness programs for the public, especially youth, centered on the values of responsible fandom, the rejection of violence, and respect for public order.
Experts further emphasized strengthening the capacity of human resources involved in securing major events through specialized training programs in digital security and risk management. They encouraged scientific research and applied studies in the field of major event security, linking results to the decision-making process within evidence-based public policies.
The event brought together over 300 participants from fifteen countries, including senior officials and international experts representing leading international and regional organizations: FIFA, UEFA, CAF, the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT), INTERPOL, EUROPOL, the Council of Europe, and the African Union. Experts who participated in major international experiences, notably the Qatar 2022 World Cup and the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, also took part.
Organized by Morocco’s Ministry of Justice in partnership with the Naif Arab University for Security Sciences, the General Directorate of National Security (DGSN), the Royal Gendarmerie Command, and the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), the event was supported by the UNOCT, the International Organization for Migration, and the Arab Police Sports Federation.
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